Newcastle claimed a resounding Champions League victory at home to Jose Mourinho’s Benfica as Eddie Howe’s side showed their depth and quality.
Howe opted to rotate a few big names, then saw Harvey Barnes come off the bench to score twice and seal the win.
Anthony Gordon gave them the lead in a first half that Benfica had the upper hand.
But after the break, the Magpies were electric in climbing to an entertaining and deserved victory.
Sandro Tonali, ill before the match, was left on the bench alongside Joelinton and Anthony Elanga.
Benfica went close in the opener when Dodi Lukebakio hit a poost, but Gordon was on hand to turn Jacob Murphy’s low cross and calm the nerves.
Nick Pope then grabbed an assist when he lofted the ball over the halfway line and sub Barnes raced away to shoot at the foot of the far post.
Victory was assured when Gordon headed the ball into the path of Barnes and he scored with ease.
